HESI LPN
Pediatric HESI Practice Questions
1. What finding would lead healthcare providers to suspect Turner syndrome in a child?
- A. Webbed neck
- B. Microcephaly
- C. Gynecomastia
- D. Cognitive delay
Correct answer: A
Rationale: A webbed neck is a classic physical characteristic seen in individuals with Turner syndrome, a genetic condition that results from a missing or partially missing X chromosome in females. This distinctive feature occurs due to excess skin on the neck and is a key clinical clue for healthcare providers. Microcephaly (choice B) refers to a small head size and is not typically associated with Turner syndrome. Gynecomastia (choice C) is the enlargement of breast tissue in males and is not a common finding in Turner syndrome. Cognitive delay (choice D) involves intellectual or developmental delays and is not a specific feature of Turner syndrome.
2. A new mother who is breastfeeding her newborn for the first time after delivery reports nipple pain when the baby sucks. Based on this client problem, which action should the PN take?
- A. Ensure that all the areolar tissue of the nipple is in the infant's mouth
- B. Have the mother reposition the infant from the cradle to the football hold
- C. Check for engorgement and assess the nipples for cracks or lesions
- D. Apply a warm compress to the breast for 10 minutes before each feeding
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Proper latch, including all the areolar tissue in the infant's mouth, is essential to prevent nipple pain and ensure effective breastfeeding. Option A is correct because ensuring that all the areolar tissue of the nipple is in the infant's mouth helps achieve a good latch, reducing nipple pain. Option B is incorrect as repositioning the infant may not address the root cause of the pain related to latch issues. Option C is incorrect because while checking for engorgement and nipple issues is important, it does not directly address the latch concern causing the pain. Option D is incorrect as applying a warm compress is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers; a warm compress can help with pain associated with engorgement, but it does not address latch issues.
3. A 1-week-old infant has been in the pediatric unit for 18 hours following placement of a spica cast. The nurse observes a respiratory rate of fewer than 24 breaths/min. No other changes are noted. Because the infant is apparently well, the nurse does not report or document the slow respiratory rate. Several hours later, the infant experiences severe respiratory distress, and emergency care is necessary. What should be considered if legal action is taken?
- A. Most infants have slow respirations when they are uncomfortable.
- B. The respiratory rates of young infants are irregular, so a drop in rate is unimportant.
- C. Vital signs that are outside the expected parameters are significant and should be documented.
- D. The respiratory tract of young infants is underdeveloped, and their respiratory rate is not significant.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse failed to report or document the slow respiratory rate of the infant, which later led to severe respiratory distress. It is crucial to understand that any vital signs outside the expected range in an infant should be documented and reported promptly. This documentation is vital for monitoring the infant's condition, identifying potential issues, and ensuring timely intervention if needed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they downplay the significance of abnormal vital signs and fail to emphasize the importance of documentation and reporting in infant care.
4. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis is prescribed apixaban. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Increased risk of bleeding
- B. Decreased risk of bleeding
- C. Increased risk of infection
- D. Decreased risk of infection
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased risk of bleeding. Apixaban is an anticoagulant medication that works by preventing blood clots. While this is beneficial for individuals with a history of deep vein thrombosis, it also increases the risk of bleeding. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, prolonged bleeding from cuts, or blood in the urine or stool. Monitoring for bleeding is crucial to ensure the client's safety and to take appropriate actions if necessary. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because apixaban does not decrease the risk of bleeding, increase the risk of infection, or decrease the risk of infection. The primary concern when administering apixaban is monitoring for potential bleeding complications.
5. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is admitted with swelling and pain in the left leg. What is the most appropriate action for the LPN/LVN to take?
- A. Apply warm compresses to the affected leg.
- B. Elevate the left leg above the level of the heart.
- C. Measure the circumference of the left leg.
- D. Administer pain medication as prescribed.
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Measuring the circumference of the left leg is the most appropriate action for an LPN/LVN when assessing a client with a history of DVT and presenting with swelling and pain in the left leg. This measurement helps to assess the extent of swelling objectively and monitor changes in the client's condition. Applying warm compresses (Choice A) may worsen the condition by potentially promoting clot development. Elevating the left leg above the level of the heart (Choice B) is generally recommended for DVT to improve venous return, but measuring the circumference is more appropriate in this scenario. Administering pain medication (Choice D) does not address the underlying issue and should not be the initial action taken.